Hunter Valley

Hunter Valley

Things to Do in Hunter Valley

A destination on every wine-lover’s bucket list, there is no place like the Hunter Valley. The opulent lifestyle of The Hunter Valley entices visitors from all around. Amongst the patchwork quilt of lush green fields and rich farming soil, traditional vineyards promise local flavours, up-and-coming breweries serve fine ales, and high-end restaurants boast menus filled with seasonal dishes and decadent flavours.

Featuring some of the oldest vines in Australia, the Hunter Valley was made famous by its winemaking heritage. The beginning of the winemaking began in the 1820s where more than 20 acres of vineyards were planted in the region by 1823. However, Hunter valley’s quality grew after the arrival of around 500 different vine cuttings taken from Europe and South Africa. The imitations to these foreign vines produced a superior wine, and from this, Hunter Valley flourished. In recent years, the region has pledged to advance the winemaking industry, bringing on board a host of new generation winemakers who are pressing hard to evolve the industry to align with modern desires.

The four winning varieties of the Hunter Valley are the flavourful Semillon, Shiraz, Verdelho, and Chardonnay. Semillon is by far the running champion, the region known as one of the best producers of Semillon in the world. Some top wineries include McGuigan’s Wine, Wynwood Estate, Waverley Estate, and Ivanhoe Wines.

If you aren’t a wino, have no fear, Hunter Valley offers you alternatives! Matilda Bay Brewhouse is renowned for its unique take on beer and cider, offering hundreds to choose from. Want something a little stronger? Hunter Valley Distillery offers a range of delightful flavours of vodkas, gins, liqueurs, and schnapps.

With wine comes food! Hunter Valley produces some of the best wine and food pairings. With a vast range of cuisines, countless restaurants, shops and factories on offer. Feast on chocolate delicacies at the Hunter Valley Chocolate Factory. Breath in that stinky cheese odour when you step through the Smelly Cheese Shop doors. And fill your belly at the many wonderful restaurants in the valley, such as the Oaks Cypress Lakes Resort.

When you’re not sipping a glass of tipple or tucking into a platter of local meats and cheeses, the Hunter Valley is the perfect place to ogle the Australian countryside.

Hit the skies and take a hot-air balloon ride above the quilted scenery. See the stunning patchwork fields and old vineyards from a bird’s-eye view as you watch the sun rise from the clouds.

Get you muscles working and hit the road cycling. Soak in the beautiful scenery as you whizz past, stopping off to discover the wineries and attractions scattered around.

For a cultural trip, visit the numerous galleries sprinkled through the area, home to exceptional pieces of art, including paintings, sculptures, and drawings.

Ride horses through the lush expanse of walking trails. Soaking up the sun rays as you trot or canter your way through the trees.

The Hunter Valley really is a must-see destination. One of Australia’s most cultural hotspots, it brings visitors a collection of art, wine, and food set amongst a stunning backdrop.